Much of the intrigue for next season will be what players Philippe Clement has left when Rangers line up for the first time in pre-season.
Five have already left the squad with Leon Balogun signed up for another season and rewarded for his fine form since the manager arrived at Ibrox.
What Philippe Clement thinks and what Rangers fans think about certain players might be totally different with Kenny Miller having a view that might rub a few up the wrong way.
Kenny Miller backs James Tavernier to stay at Rangers
For some, when the transfer window shuts, it will be inevitable that there are certain individuals who will still be on the wage bill that they wish weren’t.
Unfortunately, football isn’t as easy as selling whoever a manager doesn’t want.
A player is only worth what another club is willing to pay and what the parent club is willing to accept.
If a player is under contract and there are no bids, there isn’t much more a club can do.
James Tavernier is the best example with rumours of a potential move to Saudi Arabia.
He’s going to be 33 early in next season and has two years left on his current contract with many feeling like his time at Rangers is done.
Philippe Clement has openly proclaimed his love for the skipper, so it doesn’t look like he will be getting chased out the door.
A sentiment agreed with by Kenny Miller in The Daily Record:
“After (Jack) Butland, the next guy I’d want to keep would be the captain, James Tavernier.
“Everyone knows I’m a huge fan and, despite some of the criticism he has received, you can’t argue with what he gives the team going forward in terms of goals and assists.
“He has two years left on his contract and unless a big bid comes in, I’d expect him to lead Clement’s side again.”
Goals and assists no the problem for Tavernier doubters
The problem with Tavernier, especially in recent years, hasn’t been his numbers.
With just under 100 goal contributions in the last three seasons, the odd mistake here and there shouldn’t be an issue.
However, it is.
What doesn’t help, is that his hiccups all seem to come in Old Firm derbies.
It’s not just mistakes either, he’s scored some good goals against Celtic, but these shouldn’t mask what have been some sub-par performances.
The biggest complaint is that he is the poster boy for a long period of failure.
No Rangers captain has seen Celtic lift more trophies.
Tavernier could almost do himself and his manager a favour by relinquishing the captaincy to concentrate on his game.
He’s only human and he must be aware during games that he is going to be targeted again after another Old Firm loss.
It’s a fresh start and, despite Miller’s claims, Rangers should be considering any offer, regardless of the captain’s valuation.
